EUGENE–The University of Oregon today (May 9) awarded crystal apples–symbols of teaching excellence–to two of its top teachers.

Lisa Freinkel, assistant professor of English, and David Castillo, assistant professor of Spanish, are recipients of the 2001 Ersted Award for Distinguished Teaching. The winners, chosen on the recommendation of faculty and students, receive a $2,000 annual stipend added to their base salaries.

UO President Dave Frohnmayer dropped in on classes taught by the professors Wednesday to deliver the crystal apples personally.

"This year’s honorees are widely respected and admired by their students and peers," says Frohnmayer. "The University of Oregon has a top-notch faculty, and the winners of these teaching awards demonstrate the type of commitment to education that makes this such a strong institution."

Freinkel teaches Shakespeare, literary theory and Renaissance/early modern literature. Her students praise her exceptional teaching skills and her ability to delve beyond superficial discussions of the work to make it understandable and relevant. On course evaluations, Freinkel’s students periodically comment on the rigor of her courses. Those same students typically note that they learned an enormous amount in her classes and describe them as "tremendous," "memorable," "refreshing" and "brilliant." Fellow faculty members, according to the nominating committee, say Freinkel is the kind of professor who comes along "once in a decade."

Castillo also is known for his difficult yet inspiring courses in Spanish literature and culture. Most of his courses are taught in Spanish, requiring students to read, write and analyze complex texts in the Spanish language.

"Professor Castillo inspired us to really enjoy the text by engaging us in interesting discussions that allowed us to appreciate what we were reading…," one student said of a particularly difficult reading, and added that he "helped us to connect the issues and themes to our own lives in the present day." Other students have described Castillo as "inspiring," "challenging," "considerate" and "brilliant." Castillo also teaches through a study-abroad program in Oviedo, Spain.

The Ersted Award for Distinguished Teaching, established in 1957, rewards exceptional teachers early in their careers. The late A. J. Ersted created a trust fund to pay for salary increases to reward excellent teaching.

In addition to the crystal apple and pay raise, Freinkel and Castillo will receive recognition at Spring Commencement, set for 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 16, at McArthur Court.

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